Denmark Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety tips, getting around, and more with our comprehensive Denmark travel guide.


Introduction to Denmark

Located in Northeast Wisconsin in the United States of America, Denmark is a charming small town with a population of around 2,500. Founded by Danish settlers in the mid-19th century, Denmark has a rich cultural heritage that is still visible today in its architecture, food, and celebrations.

List of Places to Visit in Denmark

Denmark may be small, but there are plenty of things to see and do here. Here are the top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Denmark Historical Society: Learn about the history of Denmark and the Danish settlement in Wisconsin through artifacts, documents, and photographs.
  • St. James Lutheran Church: This beautiful church was built in the 1860s and still serves as a gathering place for the community.
  • The Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame: Just a short drive away in Green Bay, the Packers Hall of Fame is a must-visit for football fans.

Natural Attractions of Denmark: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cato Falls: Just outside of town, this 20-foot waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and photography.
  • Point Creek County Park: This park offers hiking trails, a playground, and picnic facilities.
  • The Ice Age Trail: This 1,200-mile trail runs through Wisconsin and offers stunning views of the state’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Denmark

If you’re looking for some outdoor exercise, Denmark has plenty of hiking and biking routes to explore. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • The Ahnapee State Trail: This 48-mile trail runs from Sturgeon Bay to Kewaunee, passing through beautiful rural landscapes along the way.
  • The Baird Creek Trail: This 3-mile trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the woods.
  • The Fox River State Trail: This 25-mile trail runs from Green Bay to Hilbert and offers stunning views of the Fox River and surrounding wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Denmark: Activities and Tours

Denmark may be small, but there are plenty of exciting activities and tours to try:

  • The Denmark Bakery Tour: This guided tour takes you through the town’s bakeries and gives you a taste of the town’s world-famous kringle pastry.
  • The Denmark Lions Club Hot Air Balloon Rally: Held in August, this annual event features hot air balloon rides, carnival rides, and live music.
  • The Nordic Fest: This celebration of Danish culture is held every September and features traditional food, music, dancing, and crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Denmark

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Denmark, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore the town, visit the Denmark Historical Society and St. James Lutheran Church
2 Hike Cato Falls and explore Point Creek County Park
3 Take a guided tour of the town’s bakeries
4 Visit the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
5 Go hot air ballooning at the Denmark Lions Club Hot Air Balloon Rally
6 Hike Baird Creek Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch
7 Attend the Nordic Fest and explore the town’s shops and restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Denmark

Denmark is famous for its kringle pastry, but there are plenty of other delicious dishes and drinks to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kringle pastry: This buttery pastry with a flaky crust and sweet filling (usually almond or fruit) is a local specialty and a must-try for visitors.
  • Traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches: Made with rye bread and topped with a variety of meats, cheeses, and vegetables, these sandwiches are a hearty and flavorful lunch option.

Local Beverages

  • Wisconsin craft beer: Many local breweries offer seasonal and special brews that are worth tasting.
  • Cherry juice: Wisconsin is famous for its cherry orchards, and the juice (or cider) made from these cherries is a refreshing and healthy drink option.

Where to Stay in Denmark: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Denmark may be small, but there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Here are a few popular choices:

  • The Hillcrest Motel: This cozy motel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
  • The Denmark Pines: This rustic cabin resort is perfect for a family getaway or a romantic weekend.
  • The Bauer Haus Bed & Breakfast: This charming B&B offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Denmark: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Denmark, try these options:

  • Kringle pastry: Many local bakeries offer pre-packaged kringles that make great gifts or treats to bring home.
  • Handmade crafts: Denmark has several artisan shops that offer handmade pottery, textiles, and other crafts.
  • Wisconsin cheese: Cheese lovers won’t be disappointed by the selection of local cheeses available at supermarkets and cheese shops around Denmark.

Local Culture and Customs of Denmark

Denmark has a strong Danish heritage, and this is still visible in many aspects of daily life. Here are a few customs and cultural practices to be aware of:

  • Danes tend to be reserved and private, so don’t be surprised if you don’t receive effusive greetings or small talk from strangers.
  • Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is a Danish concept of coziness and comfort that is often invoked during the colder months.
  • Danish cuisine focuses on simple, hearty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Best Time to Visit Denmark

Denmark is a great place to visit year-round, but the best time to come depends on your interests.

  • Summer (June-August) is the busiest season, with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and lots of tourists.
  • Fall (September-November) is a great time to visit if you want to see the fall foliage or attend the Nordic Fest.
  • Winter (December-February) is the quietest (and coldest) season, but can be a great time to see the town’s Christmas lights and cozy up with some hygge.

Do’s and Don’ts of Denmark

Here are a few things to keep in mind when traveling in Denmark:

Do:

  • Do try the kringle pastry.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.
  • Do respect local customs and etiquette.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in public spaces.
  • Don’t leave trash or litter in natural areas.
  • Don’t assume that everyone speaks Danish (most people speak English, too).

Safety and Health

Denmark is generally a safe and healthy place to visit, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Safety in Denmark

  • Denmark is a small town, so crime rates are low.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when hiking or walking in natural areas, and avoid going alone after dark.

Health in Denmark

  • Denmark has a hospital and several clinics for medical emergencies.
  • Ticks are present in wooded areas, so be sure to check for ticks after hiking or spending time outdoors.

Getting to Denmark: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Denmark is easiest by car, but there are also several other transportation options:

Airports Near Denmark

  • Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (25 miles away)
  • Appleton International Airport (40 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Denmark

  • Green Bay Bus Station (25 miles away)
  • Manitowoc Greyhound Bus Station (28 miles away)

Other Options

  • Uber and Lyft are both available in the area.
  • Taxis can be arranged through local companies.

How to Get Around in Denmark

Denmark is a small town and easily walkable, but renting a car or bike is also an option for exploring the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Denmark: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Wisconsin (or the Midwest), here are a few destinations to consider:

  • Door County: This beautiful peninsula is famous for its beaches, lighthouses, and cherry orchards.
  • Green Bay: Just a short drive away, Green Bay is home to the Packers, the Bay Beach Amusement Park, and many other attractions.
  • Milwaukee: Wisconsin’s largest city has a thriving arts scene, great food, and several museums to explore.

Conclusion

Denmark may be a small town, but it’s full of charm, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in hiking, culture, or just trying some of the world’s best pastries, Denmark is a destination worth exploring.